Alleged hazing reported in PNPA

Authorities are now investigating an alleged hazing incident in the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) involving several cadets. 

In a statement on Friday, the National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) said a task force will be formed to focus on the probe.

“This act is not only utterly alarming - it is a blatant violation of the law, a direct affront to human dignity, and absolutely intolerable,” NAPOLCOM vice chairperson and executive officer Rafael Vicente Calinisan said.

“In response, the NAPOLCOM shall immediately constitute a Task Force to conduct a thorough, impartial, and expeditious investigation, with the sole objective of establishing the truth and ensuring accountability,” he added.

Injuries, muriatic acid

The Philippine National Police (PNP) said three cadets were taken into custody by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) for the alleged hazing of over 20 plebes inside Barracks 2 of the PNPA on Good Friday. 

The victims reportedly suffered burns and injuries after being exposed to a mixture of drain cleaner and muriatic acid, according to PNP.

Authorities are also investigating seven other unidentified individuals in connection with the incident.

Initial findings showed that the hazing stemmed from an internal issue involving a cadet who intended to resign, with underclassmen allegedly punished after being blamed for the situation.

“Siyempre, nakakabahala ito para sa mga magulang (Of course, this is alarming for parents). But I want to tell them that we are cleaning our own house,” PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said.

“By arresting and charging these cadets immediately, we are showing that we prioritize the safety of your children. Mas nakakatakot kung tinatago natin ito. We are choosing transparency over tradition,” he added.

Nartatez ordered the establishment of a secure and anonymous digital reporting system to allow cadets to report abuse without fear of retaliation.

Criminal cases

The PNPA has said that the academy has taken steps to address the incident and ensure the welfare of affected cadets.

Those who sustained injuries were given immediate medical attention and are under monitoring for recovery, according to the PNPA.

“Those responsible were placed under the custody of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) to support the investigation and ensure the proper handling of the matter,” the academy said.

The PNPA initiated administrative proceedings while coordinating with the CIDG for the fact-finding process.

Criminal and administrative cases have been filed against the suspects, according to the PNPA.

In line with command responsibility, the Tactical Officer of the Day has been temporarily relieved of duties pending further review.

“The PNPA remained steadfast in strengthening its preventive measures and maintaining a safe, disciplined, and professional training environment,” the PNPA said.

“The Academy reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the dignity, welfare, and rights of all cadets, and to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, accountability, and the rule of law,” it added. —VAL, GMA News